THE DAILY SHUFFLE OCTOBER 2019
C N C O
contents 05. TASH 07. Max & Harvey 09. Savannah Outen 11. Jocelin Donahue 13. CNCO 25. MKTO 25. Taylor Grey 29. Anna Clendening
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
CREATIVE DESIGNER
@xonessa
@karlas.jpg
Vanessa Salles
Karla Silva
Follow us at
@thedailyshuffle
1
THE DAILY SHUFFLE
2
October Playlist waste DOVE CAMERON angel CYN when i wasn’t watching MANDY MOORE lonely NOAH CYRUS good thing ZEDD & KEHLANI hometown CAILEE RAE memories MAROON 5
letter from the editor Hey, readers! I’m so excited to share our newest issue with you! As we start wrapping up the year, we’re making sure to pack each issue with all our latest obsessions. Our cover star, CNCO, is at the top of that list! The urban-pop group are already huge in the Latin space and are now crossing over in an undeniable way. Make sure you check out their cover story to read all about my chat with them - we covered all things music, representation, and more! In this issue, you’ll also find our top picks for the must-watch movies and must-hear albums for October! As always, let us know who you’d like to see featured in future issues - I hope you all enjoy the exclusive interviews! Be sure to follow TDS on all social platforms to keep up with everything! XOXO
Vanessa Salles Editor-in-Chief
tash
With a mesmerizing voice and soulful lyrics to match, Tash is about to become your new fave. We talked to the talented songstress about her creative process, goals and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo credit COURTESY OF TRENDPR
Tell us about your latest single, “The Signs” – what’s the story behind the track? “The Signs” was based around the idea of superstition and whether coincidences like black cats, opening umbrellas indoors etc. truly have an affect on someone’s fate or whether we’re all just paranoid and confused. I don’t believe in any of those things, but at the time of writing this song, I was probably having an off day and beginning to wonder if karma had something to do with it. Throughout the song (especially in the verses), the lyrics explore a contemplative dialogue which questions the ideas of fate, misfortune and bad omens. What’s the creative process usually like for you? I pride myself on the fact that if I’m in a good headspace/creative flow, I can usually write pretty quickly. I like to find some chords I like first, so I’ll fool around on the guitar until I find something cool and then I’ll add lyrics and sometimes background vocal arrangements. I try to write about concepts I haven’t written about previously if I can, or write about something happening in my life at that time. How would you describe your personal sound? I feel like I’m a mixture of whatever artists I’m listening to. My sound is always shifting but to sum it up in a few words, it’s singersongwriter, soulful, indie RnB/neo-soul. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? I love the way Billie Eilish jumps around and
is full of energy when she performs. Other artists I like to draw from are Alessia Cara, H.E.R and Ariana Grande. They all have their own individual style but know how to move around the stage and make it look effortless. Which artists are currently at the top of your playlists? Who would you love to work with? At the moment, my favourites are: H.E.R, SZA, Noname, Mahalia, Mac Demarco, The Internet, Kaiit, Khalid, Ruel. The list could go on forever but I would love to work with any of those people! What’s on your bucket list for the rest of the year? I want to finish off the album and listen to it all together. It’s been hard to find blocks of time to get it all done but we’re really close to finishing. Completing a body of work like this is quite sentimental to me because these songs represent different phases of who I am as a writer, and how I’ve changed over these past few years since I began making music. It would be quite special to see it all come full circle. Any special message for fans? To all the people who’ve supported me throughout this journey (old or new), thank you for your encouragement and for listening to the music I make. Thank you for telling your friends about me. Thank you for adding me to your playlists. Thank you for being excited for what’s to come. Thank you for making my songwriting even more rewarding than it was before. I wouldn’t be where I am without you.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE
6
max & harvey
Hailing from the UK, twin brothers Max & Harvey are stamping their mark on the pop scene. With a newly released single and an upcoming tour, we talked to the rising artists about what’s to come. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by BEN SALZINGER
Tell us about your latest single, “Stranger” – what’s the story behind the track? Max: “Stranger” is about wanting to meet someone completely new after moving on from a past relationship. Any memorable moments when writing/ recording it? Harvey: As soon as we heard “Stranger,” we loved it so it felt like everything just fell into place when we were recording it. We shot the music video in Los Angeles, which was awesome! What’s the reaction been like from fans so far? Max: It’s been amazing! This is the first time we’ve released a song without fans ever hearing it beforehand because in the past, we’ve performed songs before their official release. This was definitely a special release for us. What’s the creative process usually like for you? Harvey: Our main focus is to make songs that really feel like us. We collaborate with some amazing writers who really understand our sound and we tweak everything until it feels perfect. How would you describe your personal sound? Max: We would describe it as mainly pop + upbeat. Something that makes people want to get up and dance around.
Who’s at the top of your fave playlists at the moment? Who would you love to work with? Harvey: We would love to work with AJR or Jon Bellion. We love their music and how creative they are with their production. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? Max: I would say AJR and Jon Bellion! They both put a lot of thought and care into their shows and create these high-energy spaces that are so fun and memorable. We try to do the same with our shows. You’re heading out on tour in a few months; what should fans be expecting from those live performances? Harvey: Our favorite thing in the world is performing so we really put our all into our shows! Fans can expect a lot of craziness and a few surprises. What’s your favorite part about being out on the road? Max: Meeting our fans in person! We interact on our social media all the time but it’s nice to actually meet them face to face. Any special message for fans? M+H: We love you guys and we can’t wait to see you in the UK!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE
8
savannah
outen
If Savannah Outen isn’t already on your radar, let’s change that. The powerhouse vocalist has built an incredible fan base throughout the years and it’s clear that she’s going nowhere but up. We talked to the songstress about her experience in the industry, what’s to come and more! words by VANESSA SALLES
Tell us about your latest single, “The Hard Way” – what’s the story behind the track? This song really bottles up all my feelings about my journey as an artist. The past couple of years I’ve been experiencing some crazy moments of doubt, frustration and hopelessness. There have been a lot of opportunities I could’ve said yes to that would’ve launched my career in a totally different way, but I would’ve been molded into this completely different version of myself. I just want to sing and make music that connects with people without having some crazy gimmick... even if that means I’ve gotta do it the hard way. Any memorable moments when writing/ recording it? It was the first time I had worked with producer, Giulio Cercato and writer, Adam Melchor but it felt like session 35. Writing with people you’ve never met is usually super vulnerable and scary but within 10 minutes, we were bonding over coffee and food. I’ve held onto this title and concept for a while now and was so happy to finally get these feelings off my chest. I was so worried to admit that I felt broken and hopeless but that’s life, and that’s real. What’s the reaction been like from fans so far? I really needed this song. The music industry was testing my patience, making me anxious, leaving me hopeless… And now I’m getting messages from a bunch of fans saying how they were feeling so bummed and low but then they heard ‘The Hard Way’ and got inspired to apply for their dream job, or change their major in college. I wrote this song in a really dark time, as I was second guessing everything, and I needed my own anthem. It makes my heart so happy that it’s now theirs.
What’s the creative process usually like for you? Coffee and snacks are always involved. Some days I walk in with a title, other days I have a melody recorded in my voice memos. I always have a concept because I gotta make sure I use my time wisely! How would you describe your personal sound? It’s evolving every day, but I grew up on anthemic choruses, live instrumentation, and belting hooks, so this new music is heavily inspired by that. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? Surprise surprise… John Mayer. He’s got this magical way of making you feel like you’re the only one in the audience. It feels like such an intimate show even when there are thousands of bodies in the venue. Should fans be expecting any live performances in the near future? Yes! I just played a show in Nashville and got the tour bug. All I’ve ever wanted is to tour and make a show that people can come to, leave their problems and stress at the door, and escape with me for an hour and a half. Any special message for fans? Thank you to my day ones for never giving up on me. It’s been a long road and I’m forever thankful that you’re still by my side. More new music coming so soon! Also, be sure to say hello online! I love hearing from my supporters.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 10
jocelin
donahue
Set to star in the horror/psychological thriller, Doctor Sleep, Jocelin Donahue is name you’re going to want to remember. We talked to the actress about behind the scenes moments, what to expect and more! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by KELLY BALCH
Tell us about Doctor Sleep! What is it about the film that made you want to be apart of it? You can’t really overstate Stephen King’s influence today on horror, fiction and culture. I’ve been reading his books since I was twelve and The Shining is one of the most terrifying books and movies ever made. To be a little part of that universe is a huge privilege! Plus, I got the chance to work with Mike Flanagan who is doing great things for the genre. Mike makes horror that will pull your heart strings, and then make your heart jump out of your throat. That’s why he’s such a great person to adapt King’s work. The film serves as the sequel to The Shining – what should viewers be expecting to see? Doctor Sleep picks up decades after the Torrence family’s stay at the Overlook Hotel, and the trauma from that terrifying ordeal still haunts now-grownup Danny Torrence. He’s been trying to suppress his “shine,” but he will have to use his powers when he teams up with a gifted young girl to fight The True Knot, a vampire-like cult that murders innocents who shine in order to live forever. It’s going to be dark, nostalgic, and epic! Any memorable behind-the-scenes moments while filming? This was the biggest studio film I’ve had the opportunity to work on, so the scale of the world-building was very impressive. I will never forget walking around those sets! But what also struck me was the inclusive environment that Mike creates at work. He does an interesting thing after the actors have their blocking rehearsal. He invites the entire crew to set in order to “welcome” them to the scene and to explain what the moment is about. He
keeps the actors informed with the technical aspects, and he keeps the crew informed with the emotional aspects of every scene. It really makes everyone feel united and invested in the storytelling. Are you typically a horror fan? Yes! Horror is such a rich genre because it investigates the unknown and our subconscious. This can lead to great art with complex themes. Or it can lead to thrilling good fun! What can you tell us about your time on set for Showtime’s The Affair? Mums the word until my episode airs, but it’s the final season of the show and I was so excited to have a scene with Maura Tierney. She commands the screen and makes it look effortless. The Affair is such a deep and elegant TV show. I love how it plays with memory, perspective, and accountability. When you’re not busy on set, what are you usually up to? I spend a lot of time in the kitchen because I love to cook and I have a website where I share Mediterranean recipes and food photography (primopezzo.com). Now that fall is here, I’ll be roasting chicken and baking with apples and pears. I’m a constant reader as well! Any special message for fans? I love horror fans for their enthusiasm and passion. They go to the theater, they rent films on VOD, and they have spirited conversations online. It means so much when fans champion a movie they love, and it can actually move the needle when it comes to getting smaller projects to a larger audience. I’ve been so grateful for their support through the years! THE DAILY SHUFFLE 12
cnco
Comprised of Joel Pimentel, Richard Camacho, Erick Brian Colón, Christopher Vélez, and Zabdiel De Jesús, CNCO is primed for a global pop takeover. The Latin five-piece, who met, came together as a group, and won La Banda in 2015, have earned major success in the Latin space and have since proven themselves to be a force to be reckoned with. Throughout the years, CNCO’s crossover has become evident and inevitable. We talked to the group about what’s to come, Latin representation and more.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 14
15
What can you tell us about your musical journey and the evolution of the band and your sound throughout these years? It’s been a crazy and fast ride but we have loved every second of it. Our upcoming EP, Que Quienes Somos, is our biggest growth as writers and producers. We wrote about 80% of the EP and Richard vocally produced our song “Toxica” with our vocal producer, Jean. We can’t wait for everyone to hear what we have been working on! Having already collaborated with so many big names, are there any experiences that stand out? They’ve all been incredible! We started out with our first single being remixed with Wisin, who is a legend. That lead to our first performance on an award show being with him. We then got to work with Yandel, who is another legend, with ‘Hey DJ’. Fast forward to getting to work with Meghan Trainer and Sean Paul; we think every collab we have done has been a stand out!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 16
Though the band has released Spanglish singles in the past, ‘Pretend’ was the first with no feature – what inspired that move? We received the song all in English and wanted to put our stamp on it - that’s when we added the Spanish lyrics to the song. We just vibed it out in the studio and we love how it turned out! Are there any other artists that you’d like to get in the studio with? There are so many people we would love to work with! Bad Bunny, Ozuna, J Balvin, Normani, Billie Eilish, and Camila Cabello are a few that come to mind. With all Latinx members, what does it mean to you to be the representation in music that so many people are looking for? It means everything. We have a huge responsibility to ensure we represent for our culture properly. That’s why you’ll always hear a little bit of our roots in any song we do, whether it’s fully in Spanish or Spanglish. It’s important for us to always remember where we came from and bring that with us as we go.
17
19
What can you tell us about your upcoming EP, Que Quienes Somos – is there a track on there that means the most to you? It’s an intimate look into who we are. It’s fun. There’s some love tracks, some club tracks, and even a breakup track. We feel there’s something for everyone and for every mood! Any memorable moments from writing/ recording the EP that you can share with us? ‘Toxica,’ for us, is probably the best. We wrote this with Beatriz Luengo and Yotuel and while writing it, we all told breakup stories and how it made us feel. That’s where ‘Toxica’ was born. Then, while recording, we decided to turn it into an acapella track and we were in the studio for 12hrs or more getting everything just right. It’s a special one for us. What’s the creative process usually like for you guys? We are lucky to be so creatively synced when it comes to writing. Sometimes we write as a full group, sometimes individually,
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 20
other times in a smaller group. It all depends on the day. Which track(s) are you most excited to start performing live? ‘Ya Tu Sabes,’ for sure! We have some dope choreography that we will reveal for this one. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? So many. From the greats Marc Anthony, Chayanne, Justin Timberlake, and Usher. We also look at previous boy bands like NSYNC and Backstreet Boys. How do you find the balance of taking inspiration from previous successful boy bands and putting your own spin on it? It’s easy. We always take inspiration but it’s with our own take on it. That’s our biggest priority is to never lose sight of us. Working in a group, how do you make sure that you guys are on the same page? We are great with compromise. That’s the only way to make it work!
21
23
Working in such a crazy industry, what are some ways that you deal with feeling overwhelmed? Taking time for ourselves. Whether if it’s just a night, or meditation, going to the gym. Making sure we take care of ourselves first is the best way to help. What’s the best way for fans to get your attention on social media? When they make videos singing or dancing to our songs. We love seeing that! When you think of your ultimate career goals, what comes to mind? Selling out MSG in NYC! Any special message for fans? We love you guys so much; without you, there would be no CNCO. We hope you all love this upcoming EP and know we thought of you guys during the entire process. This one is for you!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 24
erin kirby
With a sound and style that’s uniquely her own, Erin Kirby deserves a spot on all your favorite playlists. We talked to the rising pop songstress about her latest release and musical inspirations. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by BRANDON GENTRY
Tell us about your latest single, “Ours Tonight” – what’s the story behind the track? “Ours Tonight” is an anthem song. It reminds you that no matter what is going on, you still have people that you love and can rely on. I usually write my own songs but this was one was actually sent to me by the writers/ producers I work with. They felt it would be a good song for me and I loved it. I cut the song when I was younger but did not release it. I decided it was time for me to go in and recut the song and really make it my own. Any memorable moments while recording it? It actually was an easy process because I have been performing the song for years. I have been blessed to work with some amazing producers who make the process actually fun. What’s your creative process usually like? I usually begin with chords on my guitar. I come up with lyrics and a melody. I write a lot of things in my journal as well and go back to see if I can build off of anything. How would you describe your personal sound? I would say it is pop-soul. I am not completely pop or r&b but I like to add elements of old school to my music.
Who are you loving in music at the moment? Who would you love to work with? I really love Julia Michaels and JP Saxe at the moment. My dream collaboration would be Ed Sheeran. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? I would say Taylor Swift impresses me with her stage presence. She is such an amazing performer. What’s on your bucket list for the rest of the year? My bucket list for the rest of this year is to write more music for 2020. I would love to do a big festival as well. When it comes to ultimate career goals, what comes to mind? I want to have a long career. I want to continue to grow and evolve as an artist and to have a worldwide tour. Any special message for your fans? I first want to thank anyone that listens and supports my music and career. I could not do what I love without them. I also want them to know that they can do and be whoever/whatever they want, no matter what anyone may tell you. You dream it, you can be it.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 26
mkto
With a knack for crafting infectious pop tracks, MKTO’s new era has been highly anticipated by their dedicated fans. We talked to Malcolm and Tony to get the inside scoop on what they’ve been up to and what’s to come. words by VANESSA SALLES photo by ASHLEY MAIETTA
Tell us about your latest track, “Marry Those Eyes” – what’s the story behind the song? Tony: The process for us has always just been about being open-minded. When we get to work with different people, different stories can come out. With this track that our friend Dag Lundberg did, he already had this idea behind it - that’s the beauty of writing and working with other people. We think this one almost has a sort of mysterious sound behind it, while still being relatable. What’s the creative process usually like for you? Tony: Wish there was a specific process but music inspiration can literally come from a voice memo while you’re driving. It’s all about just staying true and always working to create something you’re proud of. What’s the reaction from fans been like? Malcolm: Our supporters have always showed us nothing but love. Want to get back and do some shows so we can bring the live experience, but I know they want more music, haha! How would you describe this new era of music for you guys? Tony: We’ve always just enjoyed making different styles of music, some super pop sounding and some not. But at the end of the day, music and creating are things we both love to do. After a hiatus, what inspired you guys to join forces again and create new music?
Malcolm: Streaming took on a new life and showed us people were still jamming to our stuff. We switched some things around business-wise and took time to clear our minds, but the timing just worked itself out. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? Malcolm: I like to bring energy and connect with the crowd, so early Michael and Chris Brown, definitely. I haven’t unleashed any dance moves yet but that’s a layer that I will peel off in due time. Which artists are currently at the top of your playlists? Who would you love to work with? Tony: BILLIE EILISH. With a growing following on social media, what’s the best way for fans to get your attention online? Tony: Just reach out! We always try to respond! When you’re not working on music, what are you usually up to? Malcolm: Always in the studio, love to create, but also acting; I’m shooting an episode of Insecure in October. Love to travel and play basketball! Any special message for fans? Malcolm: Love you guys and hope to see you soon at a show! Stay tuned for what’s to come! Tony: At the end of the day, I’m grateful to have been on this journey with Mal. We both set out to do something and we did it, despite all the odds when we started.
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 28
taylor grey
If Taylor Grey isn’t already on your radar, it’s time to change that. The rising pop songstress, whose infectious tracks narrate her life experiences, is sure to become your newest obsession! words by VANESSA SALLES photo by CLAIRE LEAHY
Tell us about your latest single, “Intentionally” - what’s the story behind it? ‘Intentionally’ is about when you’re wrapped around someone’s finger but don’t really want to be. It’s like ‘I hate that I love you’ but said a little differently - okay you made me love you, how cruel and kind is that.
lay in bed and journal.
Any memorable moments while writing/ recording that you can share with us? I was originally tasked with writing it for an artist similar to Julia Michaels - it was never supposed to be for me! But I just liked it so I kept it haha!
Any memorable moments from behind the scenes that you could share with us? All I’ll say is there were definitely some post-show scooter races.
What’s the creative process usually like for you? It ebbs and flows, but I usually write about what’s bothering me. Songwriting is how I get it off my chest. I’ve found I can’t really move on from anything, whether it’s a relationship or just a bad feeling I’m having, if I don’t write about it. What’s it been like having to balance music and school? When it gets overwhelming, what are some of your tactics to get back on track? It’s been a long road and one that I’m super grateful for. It’s not every day that you get to live out two dreams simultaneously. But that being said, it can definitely make me overwhelmed and anxious. I’ve found that I need my alone time to literally do nothing in order to stay sane, so I find moments where I can just shut the world out and watch TV or
How would you describe your experience touring with Why Don’t We? Absolutely amazing! They are some of the sweetest and humblest artists out there right now! It’s been an absolute dream to be on the road with them! I miss them already.
What’s something about tour life that fans would be surprised to know? I think it’s a really emotional time for a lot of artists. The highs are really high and the lows are really low. You go from being on stage and with so many people to being alone in a new city very quickly - it can stir up a lot of emotions. When it comes to stage presence, which artist(s) are you inspired by? I love learning from whoever I’m on tour with. So on the 8 Letters tour, I was really inspired by how Why Don’t We interact and connect with their fans while on stage. What’s on your bucket list for the rest of the year? Go on tour again! Any special message to fans? I love you endlessly! Come say hi to me on my socials @iamtaylorgrey!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE 30
anna clendening
Having built an incredibly loyal fan base throughout the years, Anna Clendening is a force to be reckoned with. We talked to the rising songstress about her latest release, fan love, and more. words by VANESSA SALLES
What’s the story behind your latest single, “If I’m Being Honest”? My single “If I’m Being Honest” is about a relationship I had with a recent ex who was a pathological liar. The relationship ended abruptly when all of his secrets spilled out. He used me during one of my most vulnerable times and then just left after I called him out. He was never honest with me so I wanted to have a chance to be honest with him, hence the name of the track!
ways of writing a song. Sometimes I get inspired by words or phrases. Other times, it’s a chord progression. With some writing sessions, I treat as a therapy session and we all just talk about our life and what’s going on.
Any memorable moments when writing/ recording it? There was a moment when this song almost did not get written. I was sitting in the studio with Noah and we were messing around with a chord progression on the piano and it just wasn’t coming to me. We decided we were going to break for lunch, and right before we left, I asked him to track the song on guitar. As soon as he tracked the guitar, the words poured out of me.
When you’re not making music, what are you usually up to? I LOVE the gym. It is something that makes me feel strong mentally and physically. It also keeps me very grounded as well.
What has the reaction been like from fans so far? The fans have really resonated with it. I try to have most of my music be very truthful and that keeps it relatable. I had no idea what it was like dating a pathological liar. The break up was so hard for me because he was my support system and I missed him but I also hated him. I wanted other people to know that they aren’t the only ones conflicted when dealing with a break up like that. How would you describe your creative process? I have a million different creative processes. I have really tried to grow as a writer since I moved out to LA and am open to any and all
How would you describe your personal sound? I would describe my sound as singer/songwriter pop. I want to tell a story but I also want people to feel like they can bop to it as well.
What are some ways you take care of your mental health? I take my mental health days VERY seriously. I treat them as if I would any other day where an illness precludes me. I also make sure to separate work and weekends. In an industry where you are working basically 24/7 (constantly thinking of ideas and music), I try to make the weekends as dull and chill as possible. What’s the best way for fans to get your attention online? Just DM me! I usually tell people at my shows to send me a Pineapple emoji (there’s a pineapple tattoo on my arm) and it’s easiest to see those! Any special message for fans? I love you. It’s cliche but I can’t explain how much music and the people that support me have saved my life. Life is such a mess sometimes but hearing people say they understand what I am going through makes me feel like it’s worth putting up with. THE DAILY SHUFFLE 32
OCTOBER 2019
What to watch ...
Gemini Man, 10/11
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, 10/18
Zombieland: Double Tap, 10/18
What to listen to ...
Finneas - Blood Harmony 10/4
33
Sabrina Claudio - Truth Is 10/4
Summer Walker - Over It 10/4
TDS IS ALSO AVAILABLE IN PRINT!
THE DAILY SHUFFLE SEPTEMBER 2019
JAKE MILLER www.thedailyshuffle.com/digital-magazine THE DAILY SHUFFLE 34
www.thedailyshuffle.com 35